Outdoor LED customization – neon lights, strips and lighting

The LED retrofit refers to the process of upgrading a vehicle's existing lighting with more modern LED technologies. This generally involves replacing traditional bulbs with LEDs, which are more energy-efficient, offer better visibility, and have a longer lifespan. LED retrofit is often chosen to improve the aesthetics, efficiency, and safety of a vehicle, while customizing its appearance with various color and style options.

Car tuning is legal, but it must comply with certain specific regulations. Modifications made to the vehicle must not compromise its safety or that of other road users.

A LED underbody neon kit consists of 4 flexible LED strips (2 lateral, 2 transverse) fixed under the vehicle and connected to an RGB controller. This controller generates millions of colors and offers animation modes (static, gradient, scrolling, music synchronization). Power is supplied from the 12V battery via a fuse. The strips are waterproof IP67 or IP68 in order to withstand water splashes and mud. Control is done via RF remote control or Bluetooth application, depending on the models offered at AGM Vision.

In France, LED underbody neon lights are not approved for use on public roads. They must be switched off while driving on open roads. However, they are perfectly allowed when stopped, in a parking lot, on private land and during automotive events (meetings, exhibitions). Use on a track is unrestricted. In practice, discreet, non-flashing lighting is generally tolerated, but in the event of a check, law enforcement can issue a ticket. No fine is предусмотрена if the neon lights are off during the check.

Outdoor LED strips are mainly attached with a pre-applied 3M double-sided adhesive on the back of the strip. For optimal hold, clean the surface with isopropyl alcohol before installation and apply at a temperature above 15°C. Under the chassis, use cable ties (zip ties) on the side members and crossmembers for a solid mechanical fastening. Plastic mounting clips are also effective, without drilling the bodywork. Avoid sticking directly onto the paint in visible areas.

Dimensions vary depending on the vehicle size. For a city car, allow about 90 cm per side and 60 cm for the front and rear. For a sedan or an SUV, plan for 120 to 150 cm laterally and 90 cm transversely. AGM Vision kits offer 60 to 190 cm adaptable strips. Measure your vehicle’s side members before ordering. If the strip is too long, it can be cut every 3 LEDs on the markers provided for this purpose.

Yes, special LED wheel modules exist, designed to withstand vibrations and splashes. They attach behind the rim or on the hub, with dedicated mounts. IP68 waterproofing is essential. The wiring runs along the suspension arm, with enough slack for suspension travel. These lights are especially popular on 4x4s and pick-ups with openwork rims, which let the light be seen. As with underbody neons, they must be switched off while driving on public roads.

A complete underbody LED neon kit (4 strips) consumes on average between 30W and 80W, depending on the length and LED density. An interior kit (4 to 6 strips) consumes between 8W and 15W. This consumption is low compared to the capacity of a car alternator (800W to 1500W). However, it is recommended to turn off the lighting with the engine off so as not to strain the battery. A connection to the ACC circuit (which turns off with the ignition) is the ideal solution.